Update on the above info from Benefits and Work
In yesterday’s newsletter we told you that IAS (Atos) began audio recording all PIP telephone assessments from 21 September
*This was based on evidence that Therese Coffey, secretary of state for work and pensions, gave the Work and Pensions Committee on 30 September.
However, the DWP have now informed us that claimants must ask to have their assessment recorded, it will not be done automatically
You are likely to need to arrange this in advance. The earlier you request a recording the better, as a new appointment may need to be arranged.
A DWP spokesperson told us “This is not a pilot and is something that will eventually be rolled out nationally. The process is just not yet live in areas covered by Capita but will be shortly.”
But we have already heard from one claimant who requested two days ago that their assessment be recorded.
Our member says that their assessment, which was due to take place today, was immediately cancelled and could not be rebooked because the assessor did not wish to be recorded.
Our member was then told that maybe he would now have to wait for a face to face assessment instead.
We raised this issue with the DWP who told us:
IAS have established a process where telephone assessments can be recorded and therefore no claimants are being told they must wait for a face to face assessment.
You may still consider it sensible to record the assessment yourself just in case the DWPs recording goes astray. Though you will need to do this covertly as the DWP will not give permission.